“Who did they work for?”
“Themselves.They were freelance camera operators and worked on everything from movies to TV to commercials and sporting events.”
“That sounds cool.”
“They loved the variety of it and declined many offers to be in-house at the studios.They met when they were in film school at USC.”
“I did undergrad there.Loved it.”
“They did, too.They were diehard Trojans.”
“As am I.”
“They would’ve liked you.They liked anyone who went to USC.That was all it took.”
He chuckled.“I’m glad to know they would’ve liked me.I’m so sorry you lost them the way you did.”
“Me, too.I wonder all the time how my life would’ve been different if they’d lived.I probably wouldn’t have been in such a rush to get married.”
“Everything would’ve been different, I’m sure.”
“I wouldn’t change anything, though.I have the babies I was meant to have.I truly believe that.”
“They’re beautiful, sweet and lovely, like their mother.”
“Stop saying nice things to me if I’m not allowed to fall for you.”
“My apologies.”
“Don’t be too sorry.You’re good for my ego.”
“Isla…”
She shook her head and pulled her hand free, even though that was the last thing she wanted to do.“Let’s not.”
His deep sigh echoed through the space between them, which might as well have been a mile instead of a foot.
Ten minutes later, he turned into the funeral home parking lot.Before she could tell him she could get herself out, he was there to help her down with his hands on her hips.A long, charged moment passed between them before he released her.
“Do you want me to go in with you?”
“That’s okay.I’ll be fine.”
“Are you sure?”
“No, but I’m going to try my best to be fine because my kids need me, and falling apart isn’t an option.”
“I’ll probably take a ride out to the beach or something.Stay as long as you need to.I’m in no rush.”
“I could’ve done this on my own, but it’s so much better with you here.”
He leaned in to kiss her cheek.“Call if you need me.”
“Don’t say that, or your phone will be ringing nonstop.”
“I’ll always take your calls.Always.”
She smiled softly and eyed the funeral home’s Spanish-style building.“Well, here goes.”
